Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oakland's partnership with the Department of Violence Prevention has led to violence reduction in seven high schools, but funding for the program will expire soon. Carla Ashford, a violence interrupter at Skyline High, mediates conflicts and supports students, leveraging her own life experiences to help at-risk youth. District leaders now face pressure to secure new funding to continue these vital services.
Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell announced his resignation effective December 5 after 17 months in the position. Community members attribute his departure to frustrations with the Police Commission and police reform advocates, who they believe hinder the police force's operations. The commission's chair defended their collaboration with Mitchell, arguing that oversight is essential for accountability.
New federal rules bar commercial driver's license renewals for non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents, impacting many drivers in California. Vivak Sharma, a legal asylum seeker, faces financial instability after being denied renewal of his trucking license, which he held for eight years. The U.S. Department of Transportation emphasizes these changes aim to enhance traffic safety.
The California Highway Patrol confirmed a freeway shooting early Friday on the connector ramp from eastbound I-80 to southbound I-880 in Oakland. The ramp was closed for several hours as emergency crews investigated the scene. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Berkeley's boba shop, J's Snacks and Tea, has opened, featuring a variety of snacks and meals. Peet's Coffee has reopened its El Cerrito location after renovations, celebrating two decades in the city. San Leandro welcomes Saigon Yum, a new Vietnamese restaurant offering a range of traditional dishes.
Author Tommy Orange received a 2025 MacArthur Fellowship, commonly known as the "genius grant," awarded for exceptional creativity. Each fellow will receive an $800,000 grant to support their future work. Orange, a citizen of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, was previously a Pulitzer Prize finalist for his novel "There There."
Peralta Elementary School students participated in International Walk & Roll to School Day, promoting green transit methods. The event saw 96 students walking to school, highlighting a dramatic decrease in children using active transport over generations. Organizers aim to enhance safety and encourage more families to engage in walking or biking to school.
Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell announced his resignation, marking the 11th leadership change in the department over 15 years. This turbulent period contrasts sharply with the more stable leadership in nearby San Francisco and San Jose. The high turnover has contributed to ongoing challenges within the Oakland Police Department.
Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell announced his resignation, marking the 11th leadership change in the police department over 15 years. During the Police Commission meeting, attendees speculated that the commission's oversight contributed to his departure, while the commission chair defended their collaborative relationship with Mitchell. The search for a new chief has yet to begin, as the commission aims to find a long-term leader.
Andy’s Donut Stop, a staple in Richmond since 1954, serves customers from 3 a.m. to 7 a.m., drawing in paramedics, gamblers, and locals. The shop remains popular for its light and fluffy donuts, providing a safe haven during late-night hours. Customers appreciate its consistent offerings and the community atmosphere it fosters.